Matt Ritter

The State is sending a $5 million grant to the Hartford Public Library for Phase 2 of the renovation and remediation project. The Library experienced catastrophic water damage on December 23, 2022 after an HVAC pipe burst.

The flood damage to the Hartford Public Library in 2022 was a huge blow to a community pillar in the heart of downtown. The Library is more than a place to check out books – It is a hub of student activities, local services, business resources and a social meeting place.

Securing this funding was a team effort. I want to thank, Bridget Quinn at the Library,  Governor Lamont and the Hartford Delegation for their work and commitment to this project.

Phase 2 of the renovation will commence in early 2025. Phase 2 includes:

• The American Place and Social Innovation Center: Relocated to the 1st floor for better public visibility and access, The American Place (TAP) and Social Innovation Center will include adult education classrooms, immigration and newcomer services and social services spaces.
• The Small Business and Entrepreneurial Center will support entrepreneurs, small businesses and other organizations contributing to the vitality of Hartford. Workforce readiness and development services are provided by both HPL and through the onsite American Job Center, in partnership with Capital Workforce Partners.
• HPL Studios is the new media production arm of the library. HPL Studios produces industry standard audio and visual content while supporting Hartford residents interested in learning about media and content creation career opportunities. The new HPL Studios space will have dedicated areas for digital recording, filming, performing and production to support content creation, editing and production.
• A new event and engagement venue on the main floor will host regular events and community discussions as part of HPL Studios, HPL programming, from the community and with UConn’s new CoLab. The CoLab will be an interdisciplinary space that brings together university students, faculty, and staff from across all seven campuses along with members of the greater Hartford community to identify, diagnose, and find solutions to societal challenges. The CoLab will serve as a center that catalyzes research and entrepreneurship for units across UConn.
• Hartford History Center (HHC): A completely renovated and updated HHC will prioritize public access to our unique collections, scholarly research and student learning.
• Modern Community Amenities: The renovated Library has been designed using colorful, intuitive wayfinding, a variety of seating and gathering options and other customer friendly amenities.